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Kerr Brothers Funeral Home - Harrodsburg Road

3421 Harrodsburg Road

Lexington, Kentucky

Brian Collins Obituary

COLLINS, Brian James, 62, husband of Cathleen Collins, died Thurs., May 20, 2004 at his residence. He was born Dec. 26, 1941 in Glasgow, Scotland, to the late David and Margaret Richardson Collins and emigrated to the U.S. as a child with his family in 1948, settling in Detroit, MI where he attended Henry Ford College. Mr. Collins was a 1960 graduate of Air Traffic Control Operations School, a 1973 graduate of Air Force Non-Commissioned Officers Academy, a 1977 graduate of Air Force Terminal Instrument Approach Procedures School, and a 1977 graduate of Mississippi State University Meteorology/Earth Science Program. In 1960, Mr. Collins began his twenty year career in the U.S. Air Force as an air traffic controller serving in Korea, Vietnam, Europe and many U.S. cities, giving him extensive aviation background. He earned his Commercial Pilot License, was certified in aerobatics, taught severe weather courses to pilots, and was a Certified Meteorologist by the American Meteorologist Society and the National Weather Association. His broadcasting career started while he was stationed in Berlin, Germany by simply answering an ad for help at the Army base television station. Mr. Collins started with menial tasks and was soon working the floor camera, and eventually becoming the weekend news anchor. At the time of his retirement from the Air Force, Mr. Collins was working part time at a local television station in Wichita Falls, TX. Shortly after, he was offered a full-time position as a reporter and weekend weather anchor. His move to Lexington was the result of the operations manager for Channel 18 driving through Wichita Falls looking for a meteorologist while Mr. Collins happened to be substituting for the regular meteorologist. The operations manager liked his show and hired him for the Kentucky position. His weathercasting career with Channel 18 (WLEX) spanned from 1981 until 1992. In 1992, he joined the staff of Channel 27 (WKYT) where he worked until Jan. 2004. Mr. Collins was very community oriented and enjoyed visiting area schools and talking to children about weather, aviation, news, and other career topics. His hobbies included horseback riding, ice hockey, scuba diving, and skiing. In addition to his wife, Cathleen, survivors include two stepchildren, Adam Hamilton and Kate Schottelkotte, both of Cincinnati; his sister, Patricia Collins, of Florida; and his son, David Scott Jones of Austin, TX. Funeral services will be 11 am Mon. at Southland Christian Church by Gordon Smith with burial following in Camp Nelson National Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Stephen Dunn, Fred Hassloch, Gatewood Galbreith, Alan Cutler, Jeromie Brann-Hurt, Adam Hamilton, Carter Suter, Michael Jarvis, Chris Bailey, and William Howard. Honorary pallbearers will be Brad Rardin, Michelle Robinson, Scott Wright, Tony Foltz, Steve Hart, and Brad Vernon. Visitation will be 5-9 pm Sun. at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home, Harrodsburg Road and 10 am Mon. until service time at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to Make-A-Wish Foundation - Ky. Chapter, 11805 Brinley Ave., Suite 100, Louisville, KY 40243-3004. Guestbook at Legacy.com
Published by Lexington Herald-Leader on May 22, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Brian Collins

Not sure what to say?





112 Entries

Bob & Edith Stamper

May 21, 2007

Please excuse delay. We weren't on-line back when Brian passed away.

We miss Brian Collins. His ability to be sincere and sanguine ( when I knew he was down ) was so helpful to his many TV fans. One would always feel better after seeing and hearing Brian. His attitude would leave us upbeat even with a forecast for bad weather! Today's TV people should emulate Brian. Make that for those in any business.

We will pray for Brian's family and his many friends and fans. God Bless his family.

May the Blessings, Healing, Comfort, and Love of our Lord Jesus Christ be ever with the family, friends, and fans of Brian Collins. We pray the Tender Mercies and Peace of God be given to these wonderful people.

1st Peter 1:3 ( King James Bible )
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

1st Peter 1:3-5 ( Message Bible )
What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now! God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you'll have it all—life healed and whole.

Theresa Towe

June 17, 2004

We were very sorry about Brian's passing. When my son was in 4th grade, they wrote letters to Brian about the weather, and he came and talked to them at school. He personally answered all their letters and mailed them back. My son's teacher laminated them and my son still has his. We will miss him. God Bless!

Sharon Blackburn

June 3, 2004

Mrs. Collins, I was sorry to hear of Brian's passing. Of course I did not know him personally but I sure felt like he was my friend. When I first moved to KY. I started watching WKYT and Brian and Holly on the early morning became like my new best friends. The closest I ever was to him was in McDonalds at Hamburg and he was picking up some lunch and the guys in there was kidding him about the weather and he just let out a big belly laugh and went on about his way. You are in my prayers. Sharon Blackburn

Gabriel & Jessica Czirr

June 3, 2004

Brian was one of the best in the business. We just found out about his passing. Our sympathies go out to Mr. Collins' wife, family, friends, and colleagues. He will truly be missed.

David Blair

May 27, 2004

Brian was a Prince of a guy with a great sense of humor. A terrific broadcaster, he made being "on-camera" look so easy. I will miss you.

Patricia Dailey

May 26, 2004

I just heard of Brian Collins death, I am so sorry. I have whatched him for a long time, and with all the changes with the television news broadcasting individuals, there was always Brian Collins. Greatly missed.



Sorry for the great loss of a great man.

Mary Lipps

May 25, 2004

The Collins Family

I moved from Lexington about a year ago. A friend told me about Brian dying. My daughter and 2 friends of hers moved to Jacksonville about 15 years ago. As soon as I heard the news I called my daughter and told her Brian Collins died, she & her friends immediately said, oh no, The weather man. That is the way it was with Brian, we never met him personally but felt like we knew him and always thought he was a super person. We are so sorry for your loss, a lot of people will miss him.

Sonny & Mary Lipps

Linda Jones

May 25, 2004

Soar with the eagles, Bri'....!

Barbara Stacy

May 25, 2004

Was very saddened to learn of Brian's death. He brought so much happiness to those many fans who watched him deliver the weather forecast daily. My prayers and sympathy go to all the Collins family.

Sky Yancey

May 25, 2004

I was a "competitor" of Brian's during the years I was on the air at channel 36, but our paths would cross often as we both participated in many community events. He was a good man...with a great sense of humor. My sympathy to all his loved ones. Not only is his death a tremendous loss for them, but one for the Lexington community as well.

Greg Cole

May 24, 2004

It was great to see him on tv.I never meet him person but i feel i new him very well.so sorry to here of your lost. brian will be missed.Greg

Page Schrader

May 24, 2004

I officially met Brian just over a year ago when I became close friends with his step-daughter Kate. Of course I knew of him before from growing up watching him on TV. He was such a genuine man and always made me feel welcome and at home at his house. Ill never forget making cookies with Kate and burning them bad and Brian eating them and saying he loved them anyways. I will miss his smile and great personality that made everyone feel good when he was around. My heart goes out to Kate, Cathleen, Adam and the rest of their family.

Linda Denniston

May 24, 2004

We will miss you.

Jim & Marjorie Matheson

May 24, 2004

Fond memories of times in Berlin (67-69)- we still have a tape of some of Brian's fun with the guitar at home. Then there was an outstanding performance of his at Gatow that 'stopped the show' and was appreciated by all his British friends.

Thoughts are with his family and friends.

Marjorie and Jim Matheson

John Overstreet

May 24, 2004

Brian Collins touched my life back in the early 1980's soon after he came to Lexington. The University of Kentucky was debating whether to mine the UK Robinson Forest and a hot debate was raging. I was the Superintendent forester for the Forest and was to speak in front of an over-flow audience of more than 500 people at UK. Brian was there to make a news story. I was petrified and he spotted that. Brian took the time to help me calm down and "speak from heart". I have never forgot what he said and won't forget him. The world could use more like him.

Cindy Rullman

May 24, 2004

Brian was an extraordinary friend to the Lexington Humane Society. Countless animals are alive and well today because Brian and WKYT have spent several years generously sharing their air time to help pets get adopted. I will be forever grateful for Brian's compassionate heart toward the animals at the Humane Society. "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." Matthew 5:7

SANDY BOLTON

May 24, 2004

I NEVER GOT TO MEET BRIAN IN PERSON BUT I FELT LIKE I NEW HIM. I TALKED TO HIM WHEN HE WOULD CALL IN THE WEATHER WHERE I WORK, WFTG RADIO IN LONDON. HE CERTAINLY SEEMED LIKE SUCH A WONDERFUL PERSON. I KNOW HE LOVED BEING ON LAUREL LAKE IN THE SUMMER.....I WILL MISS HIM. MAY GOD GIVE YOU STRENGTH AND BLESS YOU WITH HIS LOVE

SANDY BOLTON

WFTG RADIO

LONDON, KY.

kenneth and Joyce Fee

May 24, 2004

We loved Brian,although we never met,we felt like he was apart of family.may God fill the empty void in your hearts with his Holy Spirit.We will see and meet you in HEAVEN!!

Mark Stutte

May 24, 2004

Brian, for many years you delivered us your forecast....Telling us about the rain, snow, sun and clouds in all the contrast.....So often the weather was right,,,,,other times maybe not quite........Thru it all,,,,,You stood tall.......Inserting a joke, a laugh, always with sincerity and care.....Yet imparting to us no matter the weather, that life is always fair........Now you're forecasting way beyond the clouds......Watching over all your fans below in the crowds......We will miss you, your jokes, insight and lessons on life and fun.....Yet we will remember regardless the weather, that your spirit will always shine on like the warm and bright sun



Cathleen, the last time I saw you and Brian brunching at M+E's less than a month ago, I had no idea what Brian was going thru..I saw you at Kerr's and you shared how the news was sudden in the past couple of weeks......God bless you and Brian......He will be forcasting above the clouds to us now......

Ellen Bush

May 24, 2004

I was very sorry to hear about Brian's death. We worked together years ago at WLEX-TV, and he was a good friend and a great co-worker. We saw each other occasionally after I left WLEX, and it was always as if no time had passed. I could not be at the visitation or the funeral service, but my heart goes out to all of Brian's family and friends.

Marie Eldridge

May 24, 2004

I met Brian years ago at Johnson Elementary School, when he came to teach our Kindergarden/1st Graders about the weather. He was a sweet, kind person who loved to teach children. I will miss seeing him on the news and around Downtown Lexington every now and then. God Bless his family, my thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.

Herbert & Talmenia Sharp

May 24, 2004

My wife and I where sadden to hear of the passing of Brian Collins as we never missed hearing his forcast or just to see his smile. He will truly be missed. To the family of Mr. Collins,may God Bless you all.

Virgina

May 24, 2004

My deepest condolances to Brian's family. I never met him in person but he always could put a smile on your face just watching and listening to him. Brian truly looked like he enjoyed what he was doing. His smile lit up the screen.

God's richest blessings on the family and friends of this sweet man.

Grant Sorrell

May 24, 2004

My prayers are with the Collins family and his many close friends. Because of Mr. Collins love of his career, he was a great inspiration in my life for my love of following and studying the weather. He will be missed.

Angela Pettyjohn

May 23, 2004

My entire family was very saddened at the news of his passing. We send our deepest sympathies to his family. We'll all miss Brian dearly, he had something that no one can ever duplicate! However, I know Brian is in a better place and doing the best weather forcasting he's ever done, I'm sure it's always sunny and nice in Heaven!

Robin Rainey

May 23, 2004

My family was saddened at the death of Brian, We thought a great deal of him.As far as channel 27,it will be awlfully hard to feel his shoes. His personality was the real deal on and off camera . I had the pleasure of meeting him in person at Strode Station Elementary School several years ago.Brian gave his attention to the kids as if they were the only ones in the room.God Speed .

verdia hammons

May 23, 2004

i'm going to miss you Brian. even though i never met you, i felt like i knew you. you have brightened many a day for me. i used to eat my breakfast while i watched the early morning news and weather. you always had something witty or funny to say. you made me laugh and smile, not many people can do that. i will miss your smile and every time i eat Heathy Choice Praline and Carmel icecream, i will think of you. you once said you loved it on the air. i will also miss your ties. you had a knack for picking out cool ones. wherever you are, Godspeed and always wear your smile. i wish i could have met you in person. goodbye, special one.

David & Rebecca Lester

May 23, 2004

We were very sad to hear that of Mr. Collins' death. We never got the opportunity to meet him in person but loved to catch him giving the weather every single time he was on air. Even though he was not a relative to us he seemed part of the family from watching him in our living room each day giving the weather. Our hearts go out to the family. He will be truly missed.

P Wyatt

May 23, 2004

I never met Brian but feel i knew from watching him on TV-how better to be remembered than as a good man

MARIE HUNT

May 22, 2004

MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY

Ed & Wendy Isenhart

May 22, 2004

We were so sorry to hear of Brian's passing as we always hoped our paths would cross again. We met Brian when he was stationed in the Air Force in Spokane and Moses Lake in Washington State and played folk music. I remember fondly the crowds that would gather at Lakeside Park in Lake Chelan, Washington to hear our impromptu concerts. Brian loved performing and always connected with the crowd---how wonderful he was able to continue and prosper doing what he loved.

Our thoughts are with Brian's family and loved ones hoping that they, like we, smile to remember him.

Ed and Wendy

sheila dunn

May 22, 2004

Your smiles will be greatly missed by all who watched you. My thoughts and Prayers are with your family. I hope to meet you again in Heaven.

Sig Lonegren

May 22, 2004

I last saw Brian Collins over thirty years ago. We were both stationed in Berlin, Germany, and in the three years I was there, I came to know him very well. We played guitar together, and sang so many songs, Those were good times, and Brian's humor and laughter and kindness made those times in the military easier.



I haven't been in contact with him for years, but I am sad to hear of his passing, and send my prayers and good thought to his family.



Peace Be With You, Brian,



}:-)

Biddie Formerly Benfield

May 22, 2004

Many happy thoughts from the days at Berlin, Diving, singing, partying. My condolences to friends and family.

allyson adams

May 22, 2004

A true gentelman. You will be missed. You were more than a face on TV, You were a friend to all Kentuckians and will truly be missed. GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY, BRIAN.

Ernest & Linda Holt

May 22, 2004

My wife and I were saddened to hear about the loss of a wonderful man with that big smile. He will truly be missed. May God Bless the Collins family and friends.

Melissa Houp

May 22, 2004

It was always a treat to watch the weather forecasts with Brian Collins. My thought and prayers are with the family.

David Bondurant

May 22, 2004

An enduring and endearing presence on Lexington television, Brian Collines was also a contributor to the community. I'm sure he had his "moments" as we all do, but his smiling countenance will surely be missed by all. Our sympathies to his family.

Vivian Middleton

May 22, 2004

I always enjoyed watching Brians forecasts he could make even bad weather seem good.My prayers are with his family.

Vivian Middleton

Kevin Cornett

May 22, 2004

Im Deeply saddend of Brian`s passing.You could tell he was a great person , he had a gift at makeing people happy.I never new him personaly but i feel i did from the comfort of my living room.My Deepest sympathy to his friends and loved ones.May God comfort us all.

jamie speigle

May 22, 2004

i met brian collins at the florence crittenton home in lexington ky at a christmas party 1992 was the year i met him i will forget his nice smile that day it was a good day because of his smile and jokes he told us all and may god bless his family and coworkers and people who knew him may god bless his family in time they need it the most thanks jamie in paris ky

Roy Burns

May 21, 2004

I am very saddened to hear of Brian's passing. While I did not know him personally, I did have the pleasure of meeting him on a couple of occasions when he came out to hear our band. The smile on his face as he danced was genuine and I found him to be the same friendly and outgoing man in person as he was on camera. You were admired by many and you will be greatly missed.

Rest in peace Brian, our thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones.

linda davis

May 21, 2004

He was a wonderful person i used to see him @ thurs night live downtown with his wife. He will be missed God bless.My heart goes out for his wife and family

J.L. Walters

May 21, 2004

I am incredibly sad to learn the Brian Collins has passed away. I just moved to N.C. from KY and seeing Brian Collin's smiling face has been something from home that I have missed so much. To learn that I will never see that smile again is so sad. He was indeed a bit of sunshine on the cloudy days! My condolences are extended to his many families, friends, and coworkers who will miss him so much...........May he rest in peace.

ethel rhodus

May 21, 2004

Brian was one of a kind.Ialways liked to hear his forecasts.He was a great perso and we loved him. he will greatly missed. May god hold the family in his arms and help them through this time.We love you and will never forget you.when ever i see sunshie i will think of you. God bless you.

Vickie Arnold & Judd Kohler

May 21, 2004

The news of Brian's passing has deeply saddened us. Our hearts and prayers go out to Kathleen and his family and close friends. Brian and Kathleen have always been very special and dear to us because it was the two of them who introduced us to each other and we owe our relationship and happiness to them and wonder where either of us would be had they not introduced us. We will never forget their 110th Birthday Party!!! Brian was sporting his EXTRA TALL top hat and tuxedo and was loving life just living for the moment. We deeply regret the distance between us at this sad time and wish we could be there to give Kathleen a big hug and offer our support in this difficult trying time.



Love Vickie and Judd

CHARLIE DUNLAP

May 21, 2004

I have been in the radio industry since 1966. I never met Brian in person. but let me say I felt as if I knew him from his work on Lexinton television. He was truly a pro. My prays are with the Collins family. May God Bless.

Judith Hughes

May 21, 2004

I met Brian at my daughter's Captiva Island, Florida wedding. Brian's infectious smile was an indication of his zest for life. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family.

Heather Hacker

May 21, 2004

Cathleen and Family,

I am deeply sad to hear about Brian. You all are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Arlita and Zach Hays

May 21, 2004

Brian Collins came to The Anderson Co. Schools a few years back, and my son got the chance to meet him. We were both very saddened to hear of his passing. He will be greatly missed. Arlita and Zach hays

Terry Leigh

May 21, 2004

My prayers and thoughts goes to the family of Brian Collins. He was a

GREAT weatherman with a sense of

humor and a GREATER HOCKEY FAN like

I AM!!!! I watched his forecasts

while I lved at Somerset,KY. Brian

will be sorely missed on TV!!!!

Karen Collins

May 21, 2004

Brian, I have many happy memories of times spent with your family. Thank you for opening your heart and home to Brad and I. Those times and your smile will live forever in our hearts. Cherished memories will be shared with Porter. Much Love, Karen

Bradley Collins

May 21, 2004

Dad, I will always be thankful that you were part of my life. I have many cherished memories, most recently the times Karen and I got to spend with you and Kathleen. You are missed, rest in peace. With love, Brad

Chip Bertram

May 21, 2004

I am a newphew to Brian's late wife Kay Collins. I thought the world of Brian. He treated our family so wonderfully, especially my late grandparents. I will miss Brian and send my condolences to his family.

Melanie

May 21, 2004

I just wanted to say Brian will be greatly missed. This is a terrible loss for the broadcasting industry. My sympathy goes out to his friends and family. Perhaps it will help to lessen the sorrow of Brian's death to realize that so many of his friends, family and loyal viewers share your grief.

Tom Penegor

May 21, 2004

I worked with Brian at WLEX in the late 80's. He was as genuine as they come. I remember that he was tireless in making personal appearances by request. My future wife was featured on two "Hey, Brian" weather features. When I left WLEX he performed an on air "so long" that I still have on tape. We are all a little less without him.

Lisa McKinney

May 21, 2004

I loved watching and listening to Brian Collins. What a terrific person. He will be greatly missed. My sympathy to his family.

jamie speigle

May 21, 2004

i meet brian collins dec of 92 at the florence crittenton home for unwed mothers he was there for your christmas party he was outgoing person that i met i loved his smile and he was such a nice person to have met and know i will miss him alot and i hope his family can get thur this because he is in gods hands now he will take care of brian now but i will think about him always he was a good guy that could make you feel happy to be around and talk to him i will miss him alot take care brian and his family he would want this way sorry that is has passed away so soon love always your friend jamie

Ty Slone

May 21, 2004

I was saddened to hear the news of Brian Collins' death. I fondly remember the summer evenings spent on the deck of the Regatta with Brian and Cathleen a few years ago. He was always so much fun. My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.

Betsy Poole

May 21, 2004

I never met Brian, but I do know people who have met him. He had a wonderful personality and will be greatly missed by many.

Janet DeMars

May 21, 2004

Collins Family:



I had only just met Brian a few months ago, and hadn't had the pleasure of seeing him in his glory of a weather man on the news. However, in the few meetings I did have with Brian, it was clear that he had a deep love for all of his family, and for life. It is a pleasure to know him, and to be able to serve him. I was blessed by his presence.



You're all in my prayers,



Janet DeMars

Al Torstrick Insurance Agency

Treneverlyn Greene

May 21, 2004

I had the opportunity to meet Mr. Collins when I was in the sixth grade. My name was Treneverlyn Bacon at the time. That's been about 15 years ago. I will never forget that day. I was a student in his previous wife's class (Kay Collins) at Jessamine County Middle School. Mr. Collins and Ms. Kay are a very special part of my middle school years. My sympathy, heart, and prayers go out to all of his family. May God bless and keep you.

Sheena White (Lunsford)

May 21, 2004

To the family of Brian,

My thoughts and prayers go out to you. May God comfort you during this time of loss. Brian was a very professional and funny man. I always looked forward to coming home and seeing him on the local news. Proudly serving in the U.S NAVY. Sheena

robert szappanos

May 21, 2004

I used to work for the National Weather Service Office in Lexington, KY Before they closed the office in the early 90's. Brian was very well liked by the entire staff. He was the type of person that you would go out of your way to help. He will be missed. His forecasts were nothing FLASHY...He got right to the point...A forecast you can depend on...

Wilbur Esquivel

May 21, 2004

My condolences to Mr. Collins' family. My prayers are with them. He was a great guy with a great attitude.

GLYNDA GOENS

May 21, 2004

I will miss seeing Brian's smile. My late father-in-law, Gilbert Goens, worked with Brian many years ago at Channel 18. He spoke fondly of him back when Brian was a very young man just beginning his career. He will be missed.

Stephanie Hernandez

May 21, 2004

When I relocated to Kentucky from San Diego,Mr. Collins weather reports helped me feel better and less homesick. Thanks for making my life a bit easier.He was always smiling.

Lisa

May 21, 2004

My heart goes out to you for your loss. He made you feel like a old friend.

e harper

May 21, 2004

I loved Brian very much. I wish I could be there to say goodbye and give Cathleen a big hug.

BARBARA COLLINS

May 21, 2004

MORE SPECIAL THEN ANYONE KNOWS BRIAN WAS A UNIQUE HUSBAND AND COULD BE MORE FUN THAN ANY COMIC, HE WAS ALSO A MAN WITH A HEART BIG ENOUGH TO ADOPT TWO CHILDREN LISA COLLINS MOORE OF SPRINGFIELD, VA AND BRADLEY COLLINS OF ST. PETERSBURG, FL. BOTH OF THESE CHILDREN LOVED THEIR FATHER DEARLY AND WERE THRILLED WHEN HE ATTENDED BRADLEYS WEDDING ON THE BEACH IN FL. HE WILL BE MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM AND LOVED HIM.

Larry Smart

May 21, 2004

Brian, You did good but now you'll be even better.

Ann Pinkston

May 21, 2004

To the Family,



May God Bless You All! Even though I did not know Mr. Collins, he was a name my two youngest children and I mentioned often. His TV personality was identical to his person.



Approximately two-three years ago, everytime my children and I were at Wendy's, North Park, Mr. Collins would also be there. He spoke and talked with my children, and my kids could not believe he talked with them, because "he's the weatherman." My son would ask, "why does he wear a suit and tie, and tennis shoes, and walk so fast?" I answered, " because he had a lot of the weather to catch up with" ... at which time Mr. Collins would chuckle. He was always, always jovial, a stranger to no one.



Please keep your faith in God as He gave Mr. Collins to us. Mr. Collins was indeed a blessing on the TV screen and off. With a personality like his, he will live forever!

B J Dailey

May 21, 2004

Brian was one of my favorites on T,V.I have always followed him and I will really miss him. I am so sorry to see him go at such a young age. Truly one of the greatest.

The family has my deepest sympathy.

Tanaejah Young

May 21, 2004

HE was a good man in weather man

Teresa Jefferson

May 21, 2004

I would just like to say how sorry I am for your loss of Brian. Over the years of watching him do the weather I have grown to love him as a family member. I can remember when he lost all that weight and if I remember correctley he had a milk shake everyday while loosing the weight. Again just to say I am very sorry for your loss.I have missed seeing him do the weather for sometimes now and have often wonder how he was doing. So he will be sorely missed. May God be with you all.





Sincerely



Teresa Jefferson

Linda Amburgey

May 21, 2004

Although I never had the opportunity to meet Mr. Collins in person, I felt like I knew him. My family and I have watched him give the weather forecast for years. He will be missed.

Louise Patton

May 21, 2004

You still are the Sunshine of many peoples' lives. You will be greatly missed.

Brenda Reynolds

May 21, 2004

Just wanted to say Brian will be greatly missed in this community

Machelle Holbrook

May 21, 2004

What a life!

What an inspiration!

Mary Welch

May 21, 2004

I lived in Lexington for over 35 years. I enjoyed watching Brian Collins on WKYT. My deepest sympathy to his family.

sharon pinkston

May 21, 2004

Always enjoyed Brian's tv weather report.

So sorry to hear of his passing.

Anthony Ridgeway

May 21, 2004

It's a sad day for the broadcasting industry in Lexington with the loss of one our dearest friends. I'll never forget Brian, he was one of the first people that I met upon moving to this city several years ago. I'll never forget the lunches and conversations that we shared. To Cathleen and the family, keep your heads up and keep your hands in the hands of the Lord and he will surely guide you and ease your pain. My family and I will keep you in our prayers.



Anthony Ridgeway and Family

Danny Pittman Jr

May 21, 2004

It really hasnt been the same without Brian Collins and his weather forecast. It doesnt seem real knowing that we will not see another forecast with Brian smiling as usual. It is amazing how you can get used to seeing a certain person, especially on tv, and not really think much about it until they are no longer there. Brian Collins will be missed by everyone in Lexington. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family and all who knew him in his personal life.



Danny Pittman Jr.

Lexington, KY

Kevin Hall

May 21, 2004

I am very saddened to hear of Brian Collins death. I grew up in Cumberland, KY and watched him WLEX for many years. He was very happy person who could make you smile. I remember sending off to him to get a wind chill converter chart. He always had a good way to explain the weather. He was the first weather person I saw that would give the flying conditions for amateur pilots. I had never knew how much you needed to know about the weather in order to fly until then. My sympathies go out to his family. He will be missed. R.I.P Brian Collins.

Leonard Francisco

May 21, 2004

I enjoyed watching Mr Brian Collins report the weather. I will miss his humor. He will be missed.

Rebecca Lay

May 21, 2004

My family and I always enjoyed watching Mr. Collins' forecasts. He brought a lot of humor to a profession I used to think of as quite boring. We will miss seeing him on television. Please know his family and loved ones have our deepest sympathies.



The Lay family

Molly Belcher

May 21, 2004

I crossed paths with Brian Collins two times (of course, he didn't know me, but who didn't know him - if you were a local news watcher in the Lexington area). While teaching at Brodhead Elementary School - 1st grade - we took a group of first graders to Lexington's Children's Theatre to see "Pattington Bear" and guess who was Pattington Bear - none other than the lovable Brian Collins. The other time was at an air show at Bluegrass Field. Mr. Collins was walking around with a phamplet in his hand - looking at the various airplane models on exhibit - and my husband told me that Brian was a pilot. We had already missed Brian not being on Channel 27 lately, but we surely will miss him since his passing. Thanks, Brian, and there's nothing but sunshine for you now! God Bless!

Susan

May 21, 2004

Mr. Collins always made even the stormy days 'sunny' with his warm personality. He was always willings to come to area schools when called to inspire children to read and stimulate interest in the weather. He will be greatly missed by all Central Kentuckians.

Sharon Ritchie

May 21, 2004

Mr. Collins will be missed by everyone that has watch him on 27 news. He always had a smile on his face. You could tell by the look on his face that he loved what he was doing. I never meet Mr. Collins but watched him on the news every day. He will be greatly missed

Mike and Christine Sepanek

May 21, 2004

Brian was a fun loving great person, who cared for all people. He always had a positive attitude towards everything.



You will be missed, my friend.



Mike and Christine Sepanek

Jo Ann Wasson

May 21, 2004

My thoughts and prayers are with the Family during this difficult time.

Stephanie Sizemore

May 21, 2004

Of all the weather persons, he was my favorite. He was so bubbly and seemed to really enjoy what he was doing. He will be sadly missed. May God bless the family and give them peace to know that he has gone "home" to a better place and is finally forecasting nothing but glorious sunshine from here on out.

My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Jeff Noble

May 21, 2004

To the Collins family:

I was surprised and saddened to hear of Brian's passing.

This morning while I was working the early shift, I discovered the news on WKYT/WYMT's webpage. Needless to say, it hit me like a ton of bricks.

Even though I worked at WYMT in Hazard, and for a short while at WLEX-TV in Lexington, I never worked with Brian officially. However, I did know him quite well. He was always cheerful, easygoing, laid-back, and professional...both on and off camera.

Brian always took time to talk with me, and let me know he was in my corner, and for that I'll always remember him.

In fact, his early work at Channel 18 was one of the reasons I got into television weathercasting in Hazard, Lexington, and until a year ago, Bowling Green.

He was truly one-of-a-kind...loved and admired by viewers everywhere in Kentucky.

My thoughts, and prayers, are with you all in this time of need.



Sincerely,

Jeff Noble

News Director

WQHY-FM & WDOC-AM

Prestonsburg, KY

George Wissman

May 21, 2004

The Lexington community has lost another true gem with the passing of Brian Collins.



While extending my sincere sympathy and condolences to his family and his co-workers, I also would like to share a memory that helps others better understand the compassionate and warm personality of Brian Collins.



My youngest son is 23 years old now, but when he was a 3rd Grader in the Quest program at Clays Mill School he did an interview with Brian Collins at the TV station set on the topic of Hurricanes.



Not only was Brian extremely knowledgeable about the technical material, but he was very gracious and made Jason feel very comfortable during a stressful situation for such a youngster.



During the taping (my video cam for use at school), a political audio announcement kept overriding Jason's interview effots. Brian's professional came to the forefront as did his concern for a young child.. and he took the lead to help Jason relax and continue on with his interview amidst the interruptions. I saw this approach many times during Brian's on-air broadcasts, but I had never personally experienced Brian's interests in the welfare of others until that day. That memory remained alive with me each time I heard Brian's voice or saw him on broadcasts/news over many years to follow.



Brian Collins set an example for all of us in many ways with his civic and professional activities.

I am grateful for having had some personal experience with a consummate professional and a quality human being.



Brian will be greatly missed but the memories are oh so very good.



Please think of Brian often and pray that his family seeks comfort during their time of grief.

Wanda Smith

May 21, 2004

I have watched him for years,and got to meet Brian,he was a very nice and funny man.Brian will be missed.

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